Methadone Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Methadone is right for me?

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), methadone is an extremely safe and effective treatment option for individuals who are struggling with an addiction to opioids such as heroin, prescription painkillers, or morphine. When prescribed within a medication assisted treatment program, methadone eliminates the symptoms of withdrawal while keeping cravings for continued substance use at bay. By reducing the physical symptoms of withdrawal, patients are able to achieve the mental clarity that is required in order to successfully progress in treatment.

If you or someone you love would benefit from treatment that incorporates the use of prescription medication in order to defeat an addiction to opioids, please consult with your treatment provider in order to determine if methadone is the appropriate fit for you based upon your individual needs.

Can I become addicted to Methadone?

Because methadone is a controlled substance, there is a risk for abuse and dependency. However, when methadone is prescribed within a medication assisted treatment program, the risk for addiction is extremely low. Patients are closely monitored by the medical staff at New Hampshire Comprehensive Treatment Centers to ensure that they receive the appropriate amount of their medication. In addition, our program requires that patients receive their medication at the center where their treatment is being received. By doing so, the amount and frequency of dosages are limited for patients, which minimizes the risk for abuse.

Will Methadone show up on a drug screening?

If a person is required to complete a drug screen while taking methadone, this medication will not cause him or her to test positive for having drugs in his or her system. While drug screenings will produce a positive result if a person abuses opioids or other substances, a special type of drug test is required in order to detect the presence of methadone.

How long will I need to be on Methadone?

The period of time during which a patient will remain on methadone will vary based on his or her specific needs. While some patients remain on methadone long-term, others will only utilize it for a short period of time. By consulting with your healthcare provider, you will be able to gain a better understanding of the length of time during which methadone will be of benefit to you.

Does Methadone interact with other drugs or medications?

Because methadone can negatively interact with other medications, patients who are considering incorporating this medication into their treatment plan must openly discuss the use of other substances, medications, and prescriptions with their physician prior to starting methadone. Patients who utilize methadone are advised to refrain from the use of opioids, other substances, and alcohol during the course of treatment.

What if I no longer wish to take Methadone? Can I stop or switch to a different medication?

Although methadone has been deemed safe for long-term use, patients who begin this medication are not required to continue taking it for an extended period of time. Because patients can experience uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal if the use of methadone suddenly ceases, they are urged to work closely with their treatment providers in order to safely taper off of this medication. Should a patient wish to transition onto a different medication, he or she can work with their physician in order to properly transition onto a new course of treatment.

What is the cost of Methadone treatment?

The treatment available through New Hampshire Comprehensive Treatment Centers is highly customized to meet the unique needs of each individual patient. The medication that is prescribed, the additional services that are utilized, and the method of payment used can all cause the final cost of care to vary.

To learn more about the treatment options that we offer, as well as to determine the final cost of care, please contact our intake team today.

“Choosing to get help wasn't an easy decision, but this place has made it really easy for me to embrace my recovery. So many positive changes have been made in my life since I entered this program. I'm excited to see what life in recovery has in store for me.”

– Linda B.

New Hampshire Comprehensive Treatment Centers is a network of methadone and Suboxone clinics providing medication-assisted therapy and counseling services with locations in Manchester & West Lebanon.